Curious About Claim

[carp48]

I called the 800# after 5 months just to check up on the status of my claim
for PCa. They simply said it was pending with no explanation. I was still
curious so sent a message through IRIS to see what pending meant. They said it
was being processed, they had received what I had been requested to send
them, no decision had been made, and they were waiting for a copy of my
service medical records.
I have 2 questions, do they get the service medical records as a matter of course? I went to vetrecs to request a copy, thinking it might help and they
said it could take up to 25 weeks to get them! Does it always take that long
and can my RO get them quicker?
Thanks carp48

[TinCanMan]

do they get the service medical records as a matter of course?

Yes, The VA is required to validate your military service (DD214) and the evidence of record. (Your SMR and Personnel Record)

Does it always take that long

It takes what it takes. On Dec 23 03 I made a request of NARA for mine, I received a letter from them stating they sent them to the VA in 1980. That letter was dated 14 June 2004. ISTM, that's about as close to 25 weeks as it gets. Along the way, other folks have said they got theirs in as little as a month.

can my RO get them quicker?

Usually.

[carp48]

Thanks TCM, I appreciate the prompt, informative reply. Carp48

[Guarango]

Hi carp48
When I left the forces I took copies of every thing I could get my hads on also any copies of any and all medical records including any civilian treatment. It doesn't hurt to accumulate all the paper. Sooner or later you will need it. Freedom of information act provides for you to obtain them. Just quote it when you get hastled about copies. It seems to move tem quickly. Also, listen to TCM he has helped me a ton and he really knows what he's talking about.